The Leading Logic In Sports Handicapping

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith has apologized to the organization and its fans after receiving a nine-game suspension from the NFL for a series of off-field legal issues.

In a statement released through the NFL Players Association on Saturday, Smith said he has ''learned a lot'' and is ''working hard to grow from my experiences.'' He thanked his family, friends, teammates, the union and the 49ers for their support.

Smith missed five games last season to undergo treatment at an inpatient facility following his DUI arrest Sept. 20. In November, he pleaded not guilty to three felony counts of illegal possession of an assault weapon, stemming from a June 2012 party at his home.

Smith also was arrested April 13 at Los Angeles International Airport for allegedly making a bomb threat. No charges were filed.